15 Genocide and Politicide: The Psychology of State Terrorism

De Gruyter eBooks 2026 Book chapter Open access

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Authors: Clark R. McCauley
DOI: 10.1515/9783111444529-019
Cited by: 0
References: 7

Abstract

This chapter reviews the psychologies that enable mass killing of civilians by government (politicide). A typology of perceived threats is advanced, with special attention to contamination threat and essentializing the enemy. Three groups of actors are distinguished: perpetrators, leaders, and the mass public that leaders and actors claim to represent. Predictors of genocide are considered, highlighting the importance of means and opportunity.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Social and Intergroup Psychology Terrorism Counterterrorism and Political Violence Political Conflict and Governance

Publication details

Journal / source
De Gruyter eBooks
Pages
225–236
Publication date
15 February 2026
Language
EN
Document type
Book chapter